The Gospel should be shared simply and creatively
Jesus held attention and stirred emotions. Mark tells us that the crowds listened to Him with delight. We can slander God’s character if we bore people with His words. Matthew 13:33-35 NIV
Children and youth should be given high priority
Our kids are not the church of tomorrow, but the church of today. When a church influences children, it engages their parents and surrounding adults as well.
Mark 10:13-16 NIV
We should be relevant to our culture
Like missionaries, we are called to use music, language, and illustrations that are easily understood by the people in our “mission field,” in order to relate to them.
1 Corinthians 9:20-22 NIV
Judgmental or critical attitudes should be intentionally avoided
Believers should be given the freedom to define the limits and liberties of Godly living for themselves, within the boundaries of scriptural guidelines.
Romans 14:4 NIV
When scripture is not specific, we should not force a doctrine
Wherever scripture chooses to be vague (such as the timing of the events of Christ’s return) we choose to allow room for all Biblically-supported views.
1 Corinthians 13:12 NIV
We should be sensitive to people injured by “toxic” religion
Many people have been wounded, oppressed, or alienated by the bizarre conduct, religious mistreatment, or unwarranted legalism of misguided Christians.
Matthew 9:11-13 NIV
A balance should be struck between head and heart
We are called to think clearly and feel deeply. Well-balanced faith will put an equal emphasis on formulating faith thoughtfully, and feeling faith passionately.
Matthew 22:37 NIV
Sunday mornings should embody true celebration
Not silent celebration. Not bizarre celebration. Honest to goodness, this-feels-like-a-privilege-and-not-a-duty celebration. It should be a fun time to get serious about God. 1 Chronicles 13:8 NIV
Laughter should echo liberally throughout the church
Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, a thermometer of our faith, and the strength of God’s people. Jesus often used humor to disarm and open hearts (remember ol’ “log-eye”?) Psalm 126:2-3 NIV
Tears should flow freely when appropriate
An atmosphere of acceptance provides a safe place to express tears of joy, remorse, or pain, a place to mourn with others, and a place to find comfort and support. Romans 12:15 NIV
A warm, inviting, and accepting atmosphere should be cultivated
Anyone who walks through the church doors should immediately feel significant and cared for, regardless of appearance, intellect, or reputation. James 2:2-4 NIV
Public worship should be passionate, but not disorderly
We avoid mechanical rituals that fail to express heartfelt devotion, and overzealous expressions that draw attention away from God, and alienate observers.
1 Corinthians 14:40 NIV
Asking tough questions should be encouraged
We encourage people to question and investigate our religious beliefs, patterns, and practices, in the pursuit of truth and in seeking after God. Acts 17:11 NIV
Leaders should equip members to do the work of ministry
All believers will experience great joy and fulfillment as they discover, develop, and deploy their God-given gifts and passions in the body of Christ.
Ephesians 4:11-12 NIV
Leaders should exhibit humility and genuineness
Authenticity and transparency will embolden others to honestly examine themselves. There is simply no place in the church for hypocrisy or superficiality. James 3:13 NIV
A spirit of excellence should guide all that we do
Joyful excellence (without exacting perfection) in even the small details makes a strong statement about our attitude toward God. Colossians 3:23-24 NIV
